Toad Lily Buds When other Flowers Are Just a Memory Better Late Than Never Everyone goes gaga over early bloomers like tulips. Late bloomers get little respect. But if you don't include Toad Lilies in your garden, you're missing out on one of nature's true beauties. Come late summer and fall, when other plants are barren, the Toad Lily bursts open with orchid-like flowers. These unusual speckled beauties do great in either partial of full shade so they're ideal for woodland gardens and borders. They spread nicely but are not invasive in any way. Please plant them where you can see them up close, because the closer you get, the more spectacular they look.